jzzmusician, words cannot express how significant, and a surprise, it was watching "The Drummer". The drummer in "The Drummer" is none other than Dave Ratajczek, an old friend and colleague. Our career paths took us in very different directions and as a result I would see Dave about once every year or two and I am sorry that I was not aware of the video's existence. I am far more sorry to report that Dave passed away a mere few months ago leaving behind a beautiful family. The last time I saw Dave was on a performance with the NY Phil of Bernstein's "Symphonic Dances From West Side Story" only three weeks before he passed; he was playing set. The first time was on the Broadway show "City Of Angels" which gave birth to the infamous Rat/Fink rhythm section pairing of Dave and David Fink on bass; they were very in demand as a pair and had a special synergy together. Dave was known for being a very sensitive drummer and especially liked by vocalists for his touch and because he never played too loud. He could play any style at the highest level.
The video is very accurate in portraying what a working drummer trying to make it in NYC is like; a tough thing. It is very indicative of what Dave probably went through coming up in the scene. It should be pointed out that Dave achieved a great deal of success and was very in demand, although the weird gigs, as you know, never disappear entirely. Killer drummer, great guy (and pretty good actor; news to me) . Thanks for posting this.
The video is very accurate in portraying what a working drummer trying to make it in NYC is like; a tough thing. It is very indicative of what Dave probably went through coming up in the scene. It should be pointed out that Dave achieved a great deal of success and was very in demand, although the weird gigs, as you know, never disappear entirely. Killer drummer, great guy (and pretty good actor; news to me) . Thanks for posting this.